10 Proud Anime Characters That Stand Out with Confidence

Characters in anime who possess a deep sense of pride tend to leave a lasting impression, often characterized by their heightened self-worth and an air of superiority. This confidence, stemming from their talents, fame, or historical achievements, serves as both an asset and a significant flaw.

These figures range from iconic villains with egotistical traits to heroes driven by their inflated self-esteem, injecting conflict and intensity into their narratives. Notable examples include Escanor (The Seven Deadly Sins), who revels in his formidable heritage, and Gilgamesh (Fate series), who embodies the entitlement of a king, walking the line between self-assurance and arrogance.

While pride can empower individuals, it can also blind them to their own frailties, ultimately leading to humbling experiences or their eventual downfall. Below is a curated list of anime personalities bursting with pride, unafraid to showcase it openly.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.

Prideful Anime Characters

1) Escanor – The Seven Deadly Sins

The Lion Sin of Pride starts off our list of the most proud anime characters. His appearance can be misleading; he is seen as timid and weak during the night but transforms drastically when dawn breaks. Fueled by the sun, Escanor believes himself superior to all beings, convinced that no one could ever surpass him.

His pride knows no bounds, and he consistently proves his worthiness of the title he bears, effortlessly backing up his grandiose assertions. Despite his frequent boasting, Escanor’s overwhelming power is evident throughout the narrative, with only a few rivals able to come close to his strength.

2) Gilgamesh – Fate series

Whenever one discusses prideful anime characters, Gilgamesh from the Fate series deserves mention. His approach to pride is unparalleled. Summoned as a heroic spirit to assist his master in the Holy Grail War, he soon usurps the role of master, defying anyone who dares to command him.

Gilgamesh’s disdain for those he views as inferior prompts severe repercussions for any slight against him. Initially underestimated among other servants, it soon becomes clear that he is indeed the most formidable of all heroic spirits, single-handedly securing victory in the Holy Grail War.

3) Vegeta – Dragon Ball

In discussions about anime characters overflowing with pride, Vegeta from Dragon Ball is indispensable. As the Saiyan Prince from Planet Vegeta, he initially arrives on Earth with the intention of conquest. However, his encounter with Son Goku prompts a transformation as he eventually joins the Z Fighters.

Despite significant character growth throughout the series, his pride as a Saiyan remains unshakeable. He frequently references this pride during battles, consistently fighting fiercely and refusing to accept defeat under any circumstance.

4) Veldora Tempest – That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

Veldora Tempest from That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is an anime character who takes immense pride in chaos. His legendary status precedes him, and even a mere mention of his name invokes fear. Veldora boldly informs others that they are privileged to encounter him and survive to tell the tale.

His confidence extends to belittling the series’ strongest beings, whom he dismisses as insignificant “insects.”His immense power validates his demeanor, as he effortlessly crushes adversaries who dare to challenge him.

5) Mereoleona Vermillion – Black Clover

Mereoleona Vermillion (Image via Pierrot)

Fans of anime will certainly recognize the prideful nature of Mereoleona Vermillion from Black Clover. Her introduction captivates audiences as she showcases her strength and fiery spirit. Proudly boasting about her capabilities, she challenges anyone who doubts her power head-on.

Mereoleona remains unfazed by daunting odds, maintaining her pride and fierce smile as she uses her formidable fire abilities to tilt the scales in her favor. Few possess the power to rival her.

6) Katsuki Bakugo – My Hero Academia

A highly discussed name in the realm of prideful anime characters is Katsuki Bakugo from My Hero Academia. Known for his explosive personality and disdain for authority, Bakugo relishes showcasing his strength, often demanding recognition as the best.

He embraces challenges, no matter how daunting, and despite his brash demeanor, Bakugo displays exceptional talent, as recognized by his peers. His journey showcases significant growth beyond his boastful facade.

7) Inosuke Hashibira – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Inosuke Hashibira from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba finds a place on this list due to his wild upbringing and innate pride. Raised in the wilderness by boars, his combat skills and survival instincts generate a robust confidence in his abilities, leading him to boast about his superiority.

He frequently throws challenges at others, especially Tanjiro, and shows stubbornness in accepting help or admitting weaknesses. However, as his character develops, he reveals that his pride is born not from arrogance, but from his challenging childhood, evolving into a more humble yet resilient fighter.

8) Dio Brando – Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

Dio Brando (Image via David Production Co.)

Dio Brando stands out as one of the most egotistical characters in anime, prominently featured in Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure. His significant self-importance is rooted in his great power and cunning, fostering a relentless drive to dominate others. Dio’s confident proclamations stem from his belief that he is destined for greatness, despite his humble beginnings.

This insatiable pride fuels his transformation into a vampire, reinforcing his disdain for humanity. His tendency to see others as mere tools is reflected in his infamous quote: “I reject my humanity, JoJo!”His overwhelming pride ultimately blinds him, causing him to underestimate the resolve of his adversaries, leading to his eventual defeat.

9) Griffith – Berserk

Griffith from Berserk is yet another figure worthy of inclusion on this list of self-important anime characters, driven by his unwavering ambition and belief in his destined greatness. From the outset, Griffith’s charisma and confidence shine, as he considers himself the world’s potential savior.

His pride surfaces in his desire to build a kingdom and fulfill his royal aspirations, often viewing others merely as pawns, including his closest ally, Guts. Yet, like Dio, Griffith’s pride becomes both an asset and a liability, enabling his rise but ultimately blinding him to the connections he forms with others. His arrogance culminates in tragic decisions, illustrating that his quest for control leads to his eventual downfalls.

10) Donquixote Doflamingo – One Piece

Donquixote Doflamingo (Image via Toei Animation)

Concluding this examination is Donquixote Doflamingo from One Piece, embodying extreme pride through his status as a Celestial Dragon and exceptional strength. His deeply ingrained belief in his superiority rivals that of a deity.

Despite a tumultuous childhood that left scars, he chose to embrace tyranny as a means of asserting control. Following his fall from grace, he maintained his pride while ruling Dressrosa with an iron fist, treating others as mere tools in his game.

Proficient in using the String-String Fruit, Doflamingo ruthlessly eliminates anyone standing in his path. His overconfidence and refusal to acknowledge any faults blind him, leading to misjudgments against opponents like Monkey D. Luffy, culminating in his eventual defeat.

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